Moving Checklist: 4 Weeks to Moving Day

The difference between a stressful move and a smooth one is rarely the moving crew – it is the four weeks before the truck arrives. Here is the checklist we wish every customer had.

4 weeks before

Book your movers – good dates, especially end-of-month weekends, fill up first. Start decluttering: every box you do not move is money saved. Order packing supplies or schedule packing help. If you rent, give notice and confirm your move-out requirements.

3 weeks before

Start packing rooms you rarely use: seasonal gear, books, decor. Label every box with the room it goes to and a one-line summary of contents. Begin using up frozen and pantry food. File your change of address with USPS and update your bank, insurance and subscriptions.

2 weeks before

Confirm details with your moving company: date, arrival window, crew size, both addresses. If either building requires an elevator reservation or move-in paperwork, arrange it with the management office now. Arrange parking for the truck if your street needs it. Pack most of the house, leaving out only what you use daily.

1 week before

Pack an essentials box for the first night: chargers, medications, basic tools, toiletries, a change of clothes, coffee. Empty, defrost and dry the fridge 24 hours before the move. Take photos of electronics wiring before unplugging. Set aside documents, jewelry and valuables to transport yourself.

Moving day

Be reachable and keep pets and kids out of the carry path. Walk the crew through the home and point out fragile items. Do a final sweep of closets, cabinets and the dishwasher before the truck leaves. At the new place, direct boxes by their room labels – it saves hours of shuffling later.